Arts & Entertainment
Second City to Offer Free Classes, Shows at Open House
The renowned comedy theater and school on Hollywood Boulevard to hold event on Oct. 22.
, which counts Horatio Sanz, Tim Meadows, Joan Rivers and a slew of other funny people as alumni, is holding an open house. Classes, workshops and shows will be free and open to the public on Oct. 22.
“It’s a way for people to come into our building and experience everything we have to offer,” said Second City Hollywood’s communications manager, Carrie-ann Pishnak.
The classes will vary from short- and long-form improvisation for youths and adults to musical improv and even writing for TV and film.
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“They are two-hour tastes that will give you an idea of what a full-length class is like,” Pishnak said.
The classes are for serious actors as well as those simply interested in acting as a hobby. Pishnak said the tools offered in the workshops can come in handy both in and out of the classroom.
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“You will take on the ‘yes, and’ mentality, the mentality of freeing your mind up and being open to everything,” Pishnak said. “It’s a free-flowing experience, and that’s what improv is all about. There isn’t anyone in this world that can’t benefit from it.”
In addition to learning improv skills, all of the shows performed that day are free. The early shows will consist of “family-friendly” fare, Pishnak said.
Neighborhood business owners are getting involved in the open house as well. Many of them will have fliers and coupons for discounts on hand at a community table that will be set up for the event. Five0Four Restaurant, which is nearby at 6541 Hollywood Blvd., is eager to get involved.
“Everyone in Hollywood is an actor... and a lot are struggling,” said Five0Four Restaurant manager Petey Messina. “We just want to make sure people can eat.”
No matter what anyone’s occupation is, Pishnak simply hopes all members of the community will take advantage of what Second City has to offer.
“We’re a big supporter of the community,” she said. “It’s more like a community hug.”
Pishnak said the open houses are held every six months.
Second City Hollywood is located at 6560 Hollywood Blvd. To reserve your space for Second City Hollywood’s free classes and shows, call 323-464-8542, or visit secondcityhollywoodshows.com.
